Jimmy Garoppolo to miss at least one game after taking a brutal hit to his throwing shoulder

The New England Patriots could be in some trouble at the quarterback position.

During a very promising first half in which he threw three touchdowns against the Miami Dolphins, backup quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo left the game after injuring his shoulder on a big hit.

Garoppolo landed on his right shoulder, stayed down for a while, then left the game and never returned. Third-string quarterback, rookie Jacoby Brissett, played the rest of the game.

Now, according to Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald, sources believe Garoppolo will miss Week 3’s game against the Houston Texans this Thursday. Howe said Garoppolo could miss even more time, noting that it may take up to six weeks for Garoppolo’s shoulder to heal fully. By then, however, Tom Brady would be back with the team.

Here’s the hit:

According to reports, X-rays came back negative, so Garoppolo doesn’t have any broken bones.

Brady is only two weeks from returning from suspension, but if Garoppolo misses more time, the Patriots will need help at quarterback. Brissett would presumably be the starter, but the Patriots could also sign another quarterback for depth. Some have suggested they could look to wide receiver Julian Edelman, who played quarterback in college and has even thrown passes in Patriots’ trick plays.

It’s an unwelcome development for the Patriots after Garoppolo looked strong to start the season. Now, New England may be without its top two passers.